Walking Holidays on Kythnos island

Tour Description

Would you like to explore one of the renowned Greek islands, but you wish to avoid the tourist masses? The secluded island of Kythnos is your perfect choice! Although it is one of the first islands to be reached by ferry from Athens, the island of Kythnos has remained an unexplored paradise, a truly gem of the Cyclades islands. Traditional villages with Cycladic architecture, a superb coastline with more than 90 beaches, a significant history dating back to the Mesolithic era, agricultural fields, hot springs, numerous hiking trails, one of the largest caves in Greece and the delicious local cuisine will undoubtedly offer you the best authentic active holidays on a Greek island.

If you are looking for tranquility, simplicity and authenticity, yet at the same time you wish to combine your summer holidays with some walking, hiking and interesting cultural encounters, this is the right exploration for you! Plus, you can combine it with a visit to the surrounding Cyclades islands or as an ideal getaway from your stay in Athens.

Located at the West Cyclades, Kythnos is easily accessible by ferry either from the port of Piraeus (3 hours) or from Lavrio (1:40 hours). You can decide on your departure port depending on your holiday’s schedule. What we can assure you of is that you will enjoy a truly authentic, active and fun vacation!

Tour Highlights

• Explore one of the most authentic and non touristic islands in Greece
• Follow some of its numerous hiking trails and discover ancient sites and secluded beaches
• Take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional local delicacies
• Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the sapphire crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea
• Explore Katafiki cave, one of the largest and unexplored caves in Greece
• Take a pottery lesson and learn how to make your own pottery clay
• Meet the locals and immerge yourself in their slow pace of life

Additional information

Tour pace

Moderate

Suitable for

All travelers

Comfort level

Superior

Available

March – November

1

Day 1: Athens – Kythnos

On the first day, you will take the ferry either from Piraeus or from Lavrio port and within 3:10 or 1:40 hours respectively you will reach the beautiful island of Kythnos.
After check in at your hotel, you will have the day free* to relax by the sea or stroll around the village’s narrow alleys and shops!

In the evening, you will enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour leader and your fellow travel companions, having a first taste of the local cuisine and discussing your program of the coming days.

*The program of this day is free of activities, since we don’t know your exact arrival time (depending on the ferry schedule). We can, however, organize a hike or other activities, if you arrive early in the morning.

Dinner Traditional Guesthouse

2

Day 2: Hiking to Vryokastro – Apokrousi – Kolona

Our hiking trail today will takes us to the island’s ancient capital, Vryokastro, and then to the probably most stunning beach of the island, Kolona! Ashort hike up will take us to the hill of Vryokastro, a currently abandoned archaeological site and one of the most important prehistoric settlements in the Aegean. Archaeological research has brought to light findings dating back to the Mesolithic Age. According to the findings and underwater excavations, that town was constantly inhabited from the 10th century B.C. to the 6th century A.D.

Afterwards, we’ll descend to the white sandy beach of Apokrousi, where we’ll make a stop to relax and swim. Next comes one of the island’s highlights, the unique beach of Kolona. It is actually a strip of sand joining Kythnos with the islet of Agios Loukas, creating a landscape of unparallel beauty! Once there, you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, as well as lunch at the only tavern on the beach (if open) or snack lunch.
You will later be transferred back to your hotel.

Today’s breathtaking hike will offer you amazing views and authentic encounters with the island’s history! After breakfast, you will be transferred to the north part of the island and specifically to the village of Loutra, a popular stop over for sailing yachts. Once there, we will follow an ascending path in order to reach the striking Castle of Oria, located on a steep hill at the northernmost tip of the island. This fortified acropolis that overlooks the Aegean Sea was the capital of the island during the Byzantine times and the Latin occupation; but it seems that it had already been inhabited since prehistoric times. 100 chapels flourished there during the Venetian Rule, of which only two still stand today.

You will have time to relax, enjoy the panoramic views and take some wonderful photos, before we return back to Loutra from the same path. You will have the afternoon free to relax at the Thermal Springs of Loutra, known for their therapeutic qualities. You can also enjoy your lunch and/or coffee in one of the seaside restaurants/cafes.

Later on, a short hiking trail will take us from Loutra to Chora, the island’s capital. Chora is a fine example of traditional Cycladic architecture, with white-washed houses, stone-paved mule paths and arcades which will drive you to endless walks in narrow alleys ending to small squares and churches. Once in Chora, you will also enjoy a pottery lesson*by a local artisan in Chora and you will have the chance to create your own pottery clay!

Day 4: Hiking Dryopida - Kanala, cave exploration & cooking class

Enjoy a good breakfast today, as we will explore hiking the best of Central and Southeast part of the island! You will be transferred to Dryopida village, one of the most picturesque and traditional settlements of Kythnos. Once there, we will follow a hiking trail that will soon take us to the peaceful beach of Kalo Livadi, decked with a small church on a rock. A large beach with stone slabs, pebbles and golden sand, as well as big and very old cedars create the ideal setting for a stop and of course sunbathing and swimming in the summer. The sound of the waves will be most probably the only sound you will hear in this pristine scenery. Behind the few houses that make up the small settlement, a fertile little meadow spreads out planted with fig trees, vineyards and a few groves that gave its name to the homonymous settlement.

Our next and last stop of today’s hike is the well known coastal village of Kanala that took its name after the monasteryof Panagia Kanala, dedicated to Virgin Mary. Here you will also find the only pine forest in the island. The monastery hosts the miraculous icon of Our Lady which, according to tradition, was found by fishermen floating in the narrow channel between Kythnos and Serifos and is said to have healing powers.

Once our hike is completed, you will be transferred back to Dryopida village, where another surprise is waiting for you! Get ready to explore Katafiki cave, one of the largest caves in Greece, most of which remains unexplored to date. Located at the edge of Dryopida village, at an altitude of 190 meters above sea level, the cave maintains a constant temperature of 17 degrees and is considered to cover an area of 3.500 sq.m.

Once we explore this hidden gem, you will participate in a cooking class and learn how to prepare some traditional local delicacies, such as “sfougata”, Greek salad, “tzatziki” and much more!

Day 5: Departures – Kythnos to Athens

Today you are free to enjoy your last morning on the island the way you wish, before boarding the ferry back to Athens (or other nearby islands).

Breakfast Depends on your holidays schedule

What is included: Trails Beyond tour leader & local guides 4 days of accommodation in traditional guesthouse, based on double occupancy All meals, as indicated on the trip notes (4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners) Return Ferry tickets from Athens to Kythnos All necessary ground transfers on the island Cost for all activities included in the tour program (guided hikes, cooking class, pottery lesson) All taxes

What is not included :

International airfares Travel insuranceTransfers to/from Athens airport and to/from Piraeus port Any meals not specified in the itinerary Any beverages or alcoholic drinks during meals Optional activities that are not included in the day-to-day itinerary Other expenses of personal nature and tips

Tour Reviews

5/5 based on 5 reviews

Sue Patterson

October 19, 2017

The Secret Cyclades walking tour was a really great experience. The service provided by my Trails Beyond guide, Danae was very prompt and professional from my first enquiry through to post tour contact. The Kythnos accommodation was in a delightful family owned guesthouse in the port of Merichas. Danae and local guide George led different walks to different parts of the island each day providing a wealth of local insights and historical information. The program was adapted to suit the weather, maximising swimming opportunities and to ensure the best possible Kythnos experience. All the food from Zoe’s fantastic breakfast spreads to that available in restaurants and cafes was fresh, tasty and beautifully prepared. A very authentic Greek experience peppered with interesting conversations and warm companionship.

Peggy Wang

November 13, 2017

This was such a great tour to the less touristy and beautiful island of Kythnos. It was well planned, with easy booking, and great transportation. Danae was so helpful in the planning and Ms. Zoe was very warm and welcoming to her guesthouse. George was the best guide as his family has been on Kythnos for generations, knew everyone and everything about the island. Each hike was different and went to the scenic areas of the island. I highly recommend and hope to go back to Kythnos in the future.

Gretchen Boyer

November 13, 2017

We were met at the airport by our Guide Danae, a cheerful woman of great energy. She led our intrepid group with the help of George, her Kythnos Island guide. Our accommodations both in Athens and in Kythnos were lovely. Each day was a new adventure – a new hike – an opportunity to drink in the lovely scenery, the fresh air, and the lovely goats. And the cooking and pottery lessons were so much fun! Each meal (provided and purchased) was a feast of fresh, healthy food all prepared with such devotion – honestly I had no idea Greek food was SO good. Our weather for early spring and a little chilly – but clear skies – so although we wore all of our clothes we were happy. I’d easily recommend Trails Beyond. I hear they do tours off the coast as well in the Mountains! Greece may see me again!

Rita Yang

November 13, 2017

From the moment I booked this tour, I received nothing but the upmost sincere and professional attention. Danae was really on to it with the pre and post trip transport and travel arrangements. She responded to my inquiries promptly even during weekends.
The hiking trip itself on Kithnos island was just heavenly. We were housed by the harbour in guesthouse Kontseta, hosted by the wonderful George and his mother, Zoe. Their generous hospitality and the quaint setting of the rooms will remain in my memory for a long time to come.
The five days spent on the island was littered with hikes guided by George ( who is a master in all local Kythnos history and gossips) in stunning backdrops of the Aegean Sea and activities in the local villages.
I felt really looked after, welcomed by the locals and nourished after this trip. And would go back in a heartbeat.

David Quinn

May 3, 2019

My wife and I really enjoyed our hiking tour of Kythnos Island. From the very first contact, Danae from Tour Radar was amazing in providing information and support with signing up for the program. She answered questions extremely promptly and it is evident, that she loves active travel and wants to ensure her customers have a great experience no matter what their ability. The registration and payment was so smooth. We were met at the Port of Piraeus by George, who expertly guided us to and through Kythnos. Believe George knows every person on Kythnos. We had a blast staying in Ms. Zoe’s guesthouse/pension. It was very comfortable, clean and a nice play to chill out after a very active day. The local cuisine in town was delicious and at least a couple of dinners, and all breakfasts were included in the price. Breakfast was perfect to start a busy day. We hiked to many gorgeous locations including the ancient capital, the medieval city, numerous beaches and village. The flowers were all in bloom in April which added to the beauty. The cooking course was wonderful and the beekeeping was very interesting. I would highly recommend this trip, especially for those who like to get off the beaten path of touristy locations. Hope to go on more Tour Radar trips in the future.